Argentine Ant
The Argentine ant is a small, light-brown ant commonly found in homes. They are attracted to sweet and greasy foods and can quickly form large colonies. Signs of an Argentine ant infestation include long, visible trails of ants and large numbers of ants near food sources. Argentine ant control in Melbourne uses ant baits containing slow-acting insecticides. The ants will carry the bait to the colony and share it with others, eventually eliminating the entire colony.
Odorous House Ant
The odorous house ant is another common ant species found in homes. They are tiny, dark brown ants that emit a foul odour when crushed, hence their name. They prefer sweet foods but will eat a variety of other items. Odorous house ants can form large colonies with multiple queens, making them difficult to control. Combine ant baits and perimeter sprays for odorous ant control in Melbourne. The bait will kill the ants within the colony, while the spray will create a barrier to prevent new ants from entering the home.
Pavement Ant
The pavement ant is small, brown and commonly found in cracks and crevices of pavement and concrete. They are attracted to sweet and greasy foods and can form large underground colonies. Signs of a pavement ant infestation include ant hills or piles of dirt near the home's foundation. For pavement ant control in Melbourne, use ant baits designed explicitly for outdoor use. Place the bait stations near ant trails and entry points to the home.
Carpenter Ant
The carpenter ant is a large, black ant that can cause significant property damage. They do not eat wood but can excavate tunnels and galleries in wooden structures to create nests. Signs of a carpenter's ant infestation include large, winged ants in the home and piles of sawdust or debris near wooden frames. For general pest control and eradicating carpenter ants, locate and destroy the nest if possible. If the nest can isn't found, use ant baits specifically designed for carpenter ants.
Pharaoh Ant
The pharaoh is a small, light brown ant commonly found in warm, humid areas such as kitchens and bathrooms. They are attracted to sweet foods and can form large colonies with multiple queens. Signs of a pharaoh ant infestation include long trails of ants and small piles of dirt near baseboards and in corners. To control pharaoh ants, use ant baits that contain a growth regulator. It will prevent the ants from reproducing and eventually lead to the elimination of the colony.
Prevention Techniques
● Seal cracks and crevices around doors, windows, and foundations: Ants can enter homes through the tiniest openings. Seal gaps or cracks in doors, windows, and foundations with caulk or weatherstripping.
● Eliminate food and water sources by keeping the home clean and tidy: Ants attract to food and water sources. Keep the house clean and food debris-free, and fix any leaks or standing water.
● Store food in airtight containers and clean spills immediately: Ants are attracted to food odours, so store food in airtight containers and clean spills immediately.
● Trim trees and shrubs from the home to prevent ant entry: Ants can use trees and shrubs to access the house. Trim back any trees or shrubs touching the home.
Safety Considerations
● Wear gloves when handling ant control products: Some ant control products can be harmful if they come into contact with skin. Wear gloves to protect your hands.
● Keep ant control products out of reach of children and pets: Ant control products can be toxic if ingested. Keep them out of reach of your children and pets.
● Read the product label carefully: The product label contains essential information about how to use the product safely and effectively. Read it carefully before using the product.
When to Call a Professional?
While one can manage many ant infestations with DIY methods, there are times when it's best to call in a professional pest control service. If your efforts for ant control in Melbourne have failed, or if you're dealing with an aggressive or destructive ant species, it's time to seek professional help.
RF Pest Management, an expert pest control company, can identify the type of ant species you're dealing with and provide targeted treatment options that are safe and effective. Additionally, they can advise on prevention techniques to avoid future infestations. Remember, it's better to be safe when dealing with pests.
Ant control in Melbourne requires understanding the behavior's and preferences of different ant species. Homeowners can effectively eliminate ant infestations by identifying the species and using the appropriate control methods. Always use ant control products safely and follow the instructions on the product label.